Summary Pakistan reduces normal passport processing time to 14 days. Cashless system and improved home delivery aim to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public convenience nationwide.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The government has reduced the processing time for normal passports from 21 days to 14 days, in a move aimed at improving public service delivery and easing inconvenience for citizens.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the federal secretary for interior and the Director General of Passport and Immigration, along with other relevant authorities.
During the session, the interior minister directed officials to expedite work on introducing a business passport system, which is expected to facilitate frequent travellers and business professionals.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi announced that the issuance period for normal passports has been reduced to 14 days, down from the previous 21-day timeframe. He termed the move a significant step towards enhancing efficiency and providing relief to the public.
The minister also revealed that a fully cashless system would soon be implemented at passport offices across the country. He has assigned a 15-day deadline to authorities to ensure the transition to digital payments is completed.
According to officials, the introduction of a cashless system is expected to eliminate the role of intermediaries and agents, often referred to as the “agent mafia,” thereby ensuring transparency and reducing exploitation of applicants.
In addition to faster processing, the government has decided to further improve the home delivery system for passports. Authorities aim to make the doorstep delivery service more efficient so that citizens can receive their passports without unnecessary delays or repeated visits to passport offices.
Mohsin Naqvi emphasised that ending cash-based transactions would not only curb corruption but also enhance convenience for applicants. He added that reforms in the passport system are essential to align services with modern standards and public expectations.
The interior minister also highlighted the need to establish a dedicated passport authority to oversee reforms, streamline operations, and ensure consistent service quality across the country.
Furthermore, he instructed officials to accelerate progress on the proposed business passport initiative, signalling the government’s broader plan to modernise travel documentation services in Pakistan.
The latest measures reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to digitise public services, improve transparency, and deliver faster, more citizen-friendly solutions in key administrative areas.
